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Discover Our 2026 Exhibitions
Layers of Time: The Gardens of Hestercombe
Hestercombe is more than just a garden — it is a landscape shaped by visionaries, caretakers, and evolving ideas across four centuries. This exhibition tells that story, from its early formal beginnings to the sweeping eighteenth-century landscape, through the artistry of the Edwardian terraces, and into the remarkable restoration that has brought them back to life.
Through images and interpretation, discover how each generation has left its mark on this Somerset estate, creating a place where history, design, and nature exist in layers — still unfolding today.
Arcadian Visions: The Art of Coplestone Warre Bampfylde
Step into the world of Coplestone Warre Bampfylde — artist, traveller, and garden designer. Born at Hestercombe in 1720, Bampfylde drew lifelong inspiration from the landscapes around him. His paintings range from grand, classical scenes to lively depictions of Britain’s coasts and countryside, capturing both real places and imagined worlds. This exhibition brings together his remarkable work, inviting visitors of all ages to explore the beauty of landscape through eighteenth-century eyes.
The Portman Family and Their Estate
This exhibition explores the estate’s fascinating history and its transformation under the ownership of the Portman family.
The Lighter Side
Explore The Lighter Side, a unique exhibition that delves into the joy and wellbeing that Hestercombe has inspired for over a century. This collection of photographs chronicles the sense of peace and happiness that the estate continues to instil in its visitors.
Shared Light
Shared Light is a photographic exhibition celebrating the creative partnership between Hestercombe and Reflect, highlighting the beauty of sharing place, perspective, and possibility.
RGB: Green
The second in a series of exhibitions, walks, and writings at Hestercombe by artist and writer Lizzie Philps, RGB: Green explores the interplay of colour, light, and landscape, inviting visitors to experience the estate through a fresh, contemporary lens.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Later this year, we plan to create four further exhibitions to interpret significant historical events in Hestercombe’s past, including:
- Hestercombe at War – The compelling story of how the estate contributed to the war effort as headquarters for the British 8th Corps and the 19th District US Supply Services.
- Hestercombe House and the Fire Brigade – Exploring the 60-year period when the house served as headquarters for the Devon and Somerset Fire Brigade.
